Over 10,000 devotees came together on Sunday at the NTR Stadium in Hyderabad to observe the 350th martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru. The vast stadium was decorated with saffron, yellow, and white flowers, setting a solemn yet vibrant mood. Devotees formed long queues for prayers before the Guru Granth Sahib. Hymns echoed through the venue as many sat in deep prayer. Guru Tegh Bahadur is remembered as ‘Hind Di Chadar’ for fighting for the right to practice religion freely. Historical records say Guru Tegh Bahadur protected Kashmiri Brahmins who faced forced conversion under Mughal ruler Aurangzeb. He was arrested on his way to Delhi after refusing to convert, and was martyred in 1675. His sacrifice stands as a symbol of courage and religious freedom. The event was organised by the Sitaphalmandi gurudwara committee with support from Sikh gurudwaras across Telangana. It ran from 11 a.m. to after 5 p.m., featuring hymns and sermons by preachers from the USA, Australia, and Haryana. This event followed a week of observances, including a large procession in Secunderabad on Tuesday and a mass gathering on Saturday night. The 350th anniversary began with a special light and laser show at Delhi’s Red Fort, drawing thousands. Volunteers served ‘Guru Ka Langar’, where devotees of all ages and faiths shared meals equally. Stalls provided medical help, educational content, and devotional items. Organisers said the day honoured Guru Tegh Bahadur’s sacrifice and encouraged peace, justice, and respect for all religions, core values of India’s diverse heritage.